Vinton Lee James (1858-1939) was the son of the Texas surveyor and pioneer John James (1819-1877), whose second wife was Annie Milby, the daughter of William Polk Wilby (1809-1887) whose family has been so influential in the development of Houston. The material presented in this book is the result of years of experience and effort to present phases of life in early San Antonio and West Texas to the present citizens. Many of these articles have been written over a period of years and published in newspapers and magazines throughout the country.